"He lost some people very close to him, and it's obviously taken a toll on him," Kelly told reporters after Thursday's practice. "Our players have been there for him, and there has been great support.

"He wants to be with his teammates. He wants to be with his people that care about him. He's a strong man, and he's going through a tough time, but he'll rise to the occasion."

Kelly also said it's possible Te'o could return home to Hawaii between Saturday's game and the next game, Sept. 22 at home against Michigan.

Te'o was a key figure in Notre Dame's defensive effort last season against Michigan State when the Irish held the Spartans to 29 rushing yards in a 31-13 win.

"He's a great player," Michigan State offensive coordinator Dan Roushar said of Te'o. "He runs sideline to sideline. He gets them lined up. He looks to be their leader on defense and makes a lot of great plays. You know, he's gonna play in the NFL, and you can see his qualities."